Why PMS Is a Hormone Warning Sign—Not a Personality Trait

May 28

If you’ve been told that PMS is just “part of being a woman,” it’s time to challenge that advice. While many people experience mood swings, cramps, bloating, and fatigue in the week or two before their period, severe PMS is not inevitable. And it’s always a signal that something deeper is going on hormonally or metabolically.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects many women in some form—but feeling miserable every month is not something you have to accept.

Let’s dive into what PMS is really telling you—and what you can do about it.

What Happens in Your Body During PMS

The luteal phase—the two weeks after ovulation and before your period—sets the stage for PMS. During this time, your hormones shift:

Progesterone rises then falls
Estrogen fluctuates
Neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA can dip

These changes affect mood, sleep, appetite, and even inflammation. If your body is out of balance, these normal fluctuations can trigger:

Irritability or anxiety
Cravings or appetite changes
Fatigue or low energy
Bloating, breast tenderness, or cramping

But the real question is: Why are these fluctuations causing severe, disruptive symptoms for you?

The Root Causes of PMS

1. Hormone Imbalances

PMS is often a sign that estrogen and progesterone aren’t in harmony.

Estrogen dominance can lead to bloating, breast tenderness, and irritability.
Low progesterone may increase mood swings, anxiety, and sleep issues.

Even if your lab results are “normal,” hormone testing done at the right time of the cycle can reveal subtle imbalances.

2. Inflammation

Chronic inflammation can amplify PMS symptoms. High prostaglandin levels make cramps worse, and inflammatory pathways can worsen mood swings, headaches, and fatigue. Common triggers include:

Blood sugar imbalances
Food sensitivities
Gut dysfunction
Chronic stress

3. Neurotransmitter Disruption

Hormone changes affect brain chemicals that regulate mood. Low serotonin during the luteal phase can lead to:

Anxiety or depression
Irritability
Sleep disturbances

Addressing neurotransmitter health is key for PMS management.

4. Nutrient Deficiencies

Certain nutrients help regulate hormones and reduce inflammation. Deficiencies in:

Magnesium
Zinc
Vitamin B6
Omega-3 fatty acids

can make PMS symptoms more intense.

5. Stress & Nervous System Dysregulation

Chronic stress affects your hormones, increases inflammation, and lowers your pain threshold. Over time, your body reacts more strongly to normal hormonal shifts, making PMS worse.

6. Conditions Like PMDD

For some women, PMS is severe enough to interfere with daily life. This may indicate Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a more intense hormonal and neurological syndrome that affects 3–8% of women. Symptoms can include severe mood swings, depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.

Why Symptom-Only Solutions Don’t Work

Painkillers, SSRIs, or birth control may temporarily mask symptoms, but they do not address the root cause. Without understanding the underlying hormone imbalance, inflammation, or nutrient deficiency, PMS often returns month after month—sometimes worse than before.

A Root-Cause Approach to PMS

Here’s what addressing PMS at the root looks like:

Comprehensive hormone testing at the right cycle time
Inflammation and metabolic markers
Gut and liver function evaluation
Nutrient assessment
Lifestyle analysis: sleep, stress, and exercise

Treatment may include:

Targeted nutrition and blood sugar stabilization
Gut and liver support
Hormone-balancing strategies
Stress and nervous system regulation
Supplements for inflammation and neurotransmitter support

The goal is not just “less PMS,” but a cycle that feels calm, balanced, and predictable.

You Don’t Have to Suffer Every Month

Severe PMS is a signal from your body, not a personality flaw. With the right evaluation and personalized plan, you can reduce or even eliminate monthly symptoms. Imagine experiencing predictable cycles, stable moods, and less bloating and fatigue—all without masking the problem.

Ready to Take Control of Your Cycle?

If PMS is interfering with your life, it’s time to address the root cause, not just the symptoms. I offer comprehensive telemedicine consultations for women struggling with PMS, hormone imbalance, and menstrual health concerns.

👉 Book your consultation today and start your journey to a calmer, balanced cycle.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice.

Liz McAuliff